College Costs in Plano, TX 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 9 colleges in Plano, Texas. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$2,220
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$39,702
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$849
per month
Colleges & Universities
9
institutions
Plano Overview
Population
285,494
Student Population
17,284 (6.1%)
Cost of Living Index
85 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
52/100
Transit Score
34/100
Unemployment Rate
4.7%
College Cost Calculator for Plano
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$57,988
Total After Financial Aid
$57,988
Annual Cost
$14,497
Annual After Aid
$14,497
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $57,988 |
| Monthly Payment | $658 |
| Total Interest | $21,025 |
| Total Loan Cost | $79,013 |
Universities in Plano
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Collin College University Center | Public | $2,220 |
| Collin College | Community | $2,220 |
Plano has 9 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Plano vs. National Average
| Category | Plano | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $2,220 | $10,940 | -$8,720 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $849 | $1,050 | -$201 |
| Cost of Living Index | 85 | 100 | -15 |
Plano's cost of living is below the national average. This makes it a more affordable city for students compared to many other college towns.
Student Life in Plano
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
17,284 students
Plano has a total population of 285,494, with approximately 17,284 college students (6.1% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Plano offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Plano
$46,896
Starting Salary
4.7%
Unemployment Rate
57%
Graduation Rate
~5 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Plano earn a median starting salary of $46,896, which is $11,896 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $57,988 (including room and board), it would take approximately 5 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,063 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Texas
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90 colleges · Avg tuition $10,200
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82 colleges · Avg tuition $11,274
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30 colleges · Avg tuition $11,448
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19 colleges · Avg tuition $10,870
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38 colleges · Avg tuition $8,886
Corpus Christi
22 colleges · Avg tuition $9,426
Lubbock
26 colleges · Avg tuition $11,380
Irving
23 colleges · Avg tuition $7,612
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14 colleges · Avg tuition $7,850
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23 colleges · Avg tuition $11,277
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14 colleges · Avg tuition $9,030
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